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Blue Jays choose to non-tender Wilson

Blue Jays choose to non-tender Wilson

8/31/12: Bobby Wilson sends a two-run home run to left field to give the Angels an eight-run lead in the ninth

By Gregor Chisholm
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MLB.com |

TORONTO -- The Blue Jays' catching situation became a little clearer late Friday night, as the club opted to non-tender Bobby Wilson.

For the first time in his career, Wilson was arbitration-eligible and would have been in line for approximately $600,000 next season. He now becomes a free agent, and Toronto clears an opening on its 40-man roster.

The Blue Jays originally claimed Wilson off waivers from the Angels on Oct. 22. At the time, he provided an insurance policy in case the club opted to make a move on one of its big league catchers.

It now appears as though Toronto's tandem behind the plate is set with J.P. Arencibia as the everyday guy and veteran John Buck as the back-up. Top prospect Travis d'Arnaud likely will begin the year at Triple-A Buffalo and should be ready in the event of an injury.

The decision to non-tender Wilson comes as somewhat of a surprise. The club could have settled on a non-guaranteed deal, which then could have been bought out prior to the start of the season for one-sixth of its value.

Wilson will instead have to look for employment elsewhere. He's known more for his work behind the plate than his ability with the bat. He hit just .211 with three homers and 13 RBIs in 75 games last season for the Angels.